Question

Which of the following most accurately describes the effect of exposure to radiation? Select all that apply

any exposure to radiation will cause death

low levels of infrequent exposure to radiation are not harmful long-term

exposure to radiation always results in cancer formation

excess exposure to radiation can cause cancer and possibly death

Answer 1

Exposure to very high levels of radiation, such as being close to an atomic blast, can cause acute health effects such as skin burns and acute radiation syndrome (“radiation sickness"). It can also result in long-term health effects such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.